If you were drawn to the relentless pursuit of a cause and the tension of a mission that could shape the future of humanity in Persepolis Rising, you'll be hooked by Revelation Space. Reynolds crafts a sprawling space opera where Dan Sylveste’s obsession with uncovering an ancient mystery puts him—and the fate of civilizations—on a collision course with powerful forces. The book’s intricate plotting and clear, urgent objectives will keep you eagerly turning the pages.

If you loved the dynamic between Holden, Naomi, and the rest of the Rocinante crew, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet delivers even more ensemble magic. Chambers’ story centers on the mismatched crew of the Wayfarer as they journey through the galaxy, each member bringing their own quirks, backgrounds, and conflicts. The camaraderie, humor, and depth of relationships will make you feel right at home among the stars.

If the sweeping scale and far-reaching consequences of Persepolis Rising captivated you, Children of Time will blow you away. Tchaikovsky’s tale takes you from the collapse of human civilization to the rise of a new intelligent species, weaving together timelines and civilizations across millennia. The epic scope and the sense of witnessing history unfold on a galactic canvas are truly breathtaking.

If you were hooked by the intrigue and shifting alliances between the Laconian Empire, the Transport Union, and the underground resistance, The Collapsing Empire will satisfy your appetite for political chess games. Scalzi’s interstellar society teeters on the edge of upheaval, and every character—from Emperox Grayland II to scheming nobles—must navigate a web of power plays and betrayals. The twists and turns of galactic politics are both fun and suspenseful.

If you appreciated the nuanced depiction of alien societies like the Laconians and the Martians, The Left Hand of Darkness will enthrall you with its deep dive into the world of Gethen. Le Guin masterfully explores themes of identity, gender, and politics through the eyes of Genly Ai as he navigates an utterly foreign culture. The careful worldbuilding and cultural complexity make every interaction meaningful.